Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of friendship, resilience, and vampire-slaying sass—meet Sharina Harris! Writing under her pen name Rina Gray, this Atlanta-based author traded a career in digital marketing for the thrill of crafting novels that tug at heartstrings and spark laughter. From contemporary romance to young adult paranormal adventures, Harris’s stories are a vibrant blend of wit, heart, and cultural depth that captivate readers worldwide.
Her journey from dreamer to acclaimed author is a testament to perseverance, proving that passion and grit can turn a childhood love for storytelling into a thriving career. Let’s dive into the world of Sharina Harris and discover why her books are must-reads for fans of women’s fiction and beyond.
The Making of Sharina Harris
Born and raised in the United States, Sharina Harris earned a Bachelor of Arts from Georgia State University. Initially, she carved out a successful career in digital marketing and public relations, where her knack for words shone through. But storytelling was her first love—she wrote her first book at age 12! After a layoff in her twenties, a spark of inspiration struck. Harris seized the moment, channeling her energy into writing, and by 2012, she was fully committed to her craft. Her resilience and determination laid the foundation for a career that would soon flourish.
Sharina Harris’s Unforgettable Stories
Harris’s bibliography is a delightful mix of genres, showcasing her versatility and knack for relatable characters. Writing as Rina Gray, her contemporary romance series earned a spot on Book Riot’s 100 Must-Read Romantic Comedies, celebrated for its humor and heart. Her women’s fiction novel (Im)Perfectly Happy follows four college friends in a mastermind group, tackling dreams, love, and life’s curveballs with unwavering support. Readers praise its engaging storytelling and inspiring themes of friendship.
Judge’s Girls, another standout, explores grief and family dynamics as three women navigate the loss of their patriarch. Set in the gossip-filled town of Hope Springs, Georgia, it’s a poignant tale of healing and unity. For fans of the supernatural, Sign of the Slayer, the first in her American Slayer Society series, blends Full Metal Alchemist vibes with Vampire Diaries thrills. It follows a high school band geek turned vampire slayer, packed with action, sarcasm, and pop culture nods. Harris’s writing style—witty, immersive, and emotionally rich—makes her stories resonate across genres.
Her ability to weave themes of identity, personal growth, and cultural nuance into her work sets her apart. Whether it’s the ambition of lifelong friends or a Black female protagonist slaying vampires, Harris crafts narratives that feel both universal and deeply personal, earning her accolades like a Romance Slam Jam Debut Novelist nomination.
Why Sharina Harris Matters
Sharina Harris’s impact lies in her ability to create stories that uplift and inspire. Her focus on diverse characters and authentic relationships resonates with readers seeking representation in literature. As Director of Communications for Georgia’s Romance Writers of America chapter, she champions aspiring authors, fostering a supportive creative community. Her transition from a corporate career to full-time writing inspires dreamers to pursue their passions, proving that it’s never too late to chase your calling.
Harris’s work also taps into the growing demand for inclusive storytelling, particularly in paranormal and women’s fiction. By centering Black protagonists and exploring universal themes, she’s carving out a space for underrepresented voices in mainstream genres, paving the way for future authors.
- Born: United States
- Key Works: (Im)Perfectly Happy, Judge’s Girls, Sign of the Slayer
- Pen Name: Rina Gray
- Notable Recognition: Romance Slam Jam Debut Novelist of the Year nominee
Ready to lose yourself in a world of heartfelt stories and vampire-slaying adventures? Grab Sign of the Slayer or (Im)Perfectly Happy and dive into Sharina Harris’s captivating blend of humor, heart, and heroism!